The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Vs Suicide

After learning of the tragic loss of 7 Fusiliers to suicide over the last 12 months, the Colonel and the RHQ are taking a stronger stance against this devastating enemy.

In addition to the already powerful Fusilier family network, further training is becoming available to any family member, partner or friend of the military to take part. 

In conjunction with SAFEtalk and Rev Andrew Rawding, former 2nd Fusilier, alertness training will be given to help spot the early signs of mental health suffering with the view of preventing further losses. 

RHQ is planning the following;

• A number of 3 hour training sessions for the Regiment, across the four Areas and the Battalions
• Probably taking place midweek in Newcastle, Bury, Sheldon, RHQ and Tidworth, and probably in the evening
• Group size can be between 10 and 30.
• RHQ will fund all training costs, including the formal accreditation.
• Attendees can come from all parts of the Fusilier Family, including wives, partners and friends of the Regiment who want to offer their support.

Details of how to express your interest will soon be passed out to the Association Branches.

What is safeTALK ?

safeTALK is a half-day alertness training that prepares anyone over the age of 15, regardless of prior experience or training, to become a suicide-alert helper.

Most people with thoughts of suicide don’t truly want to die, but are struggling with the pain in their lives. Through their words and actions, they often invite help to stay alive. safeTALK-trained helpers can recognize these invitations and take action by connecting them with life-saving intervention resources, such as professional caregivers.

Since its development in 2006, safeTALK has been used in over 20 countries around the world. Over the course of their training, safeTALK participants will learn to:

• Notice and respond to situations where suicide thoughts might be present
• Recognize that invitations for help are often overlooked
• Move beyond the common tendency to miss, dismiss, and avoid suicide
• Apply the TALK steps: Tell, Ask, Listen, and KeepSafe
• Know community resources and how to connect someone with thoughts of suicide to them for further help

Do you need help now?

List of Emergency Services

If your, or a family member’s, life is in danger, don’t hesitate, dial 999, ask for Police or Ambulance and, if you have time, explain there is a Veteran involved.

Combat Stress’ emergency, 24 hour, contact details are:

Call 0800 138 1619

Text 07537 404 719

Email helpline@combatstress.org.uk

Finally, don’t forget the Samaritans who also have a 24/7 response service, as follows:

Tel: 116 123 (UK & ROI).  All calls are free

Email: jo@samaritans.org